The Inca Fortress of Saqsaywaman: An impressive feat of Pre-Hispanic Engineering

Saqsaywaman (often spelled Sacsayhuaman) is an archeological site located in the city of Cusco, Peru. It is a massive complex of stone walls and terraces that were built by the Incas during the late 15th century. Saqsaywaman is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.

How is the Inca Fortress of Saqsaywaman laid out?

The fortress is composed of three large areas, each one with its own distinct features. The first one is known as the main square, which is surrounded by three massive walls. These walls were built with huge granite blocks carved to interlock with each other. This impressive construction was designed to resist enemy attack, which demonstrates the remarkable engineering knowledge of the Incas.

The second area is the entrance, which has two great towers and is guarded by a large gate. This area is where the Inca warriors would stand, guard and protect the fortress from any intruders. This entrance were also used as a religious site, as it is believed that sacrifices were made here.

The third area is the inside of the fortress, where the Inca elite lived. Here the Incas built their temples and storehouses, and the stone walls were decorated with carvings and paintings. This area also served as a market.

Awesome facts about Saqsaywaman

The Inca Fortress of Saqsaywaman is an ancient site located really close to the center of the city of Cusco. Built in the 15th century, this architectural marvel was part of the Inca Empire’s defense system and is considered one of the most impressive feats of Inca engineering.

Here are some fascinating facts about this ancient site:

1. Saqsaywaman was built with precision and skill: The Incas were renowned stonemasons, and their work at Saqsaywaman is indisputable proof of this. The stones used to build the walls are of different sizes and shapes, yet they fit together perfectly without the use of mortar. The Incas used a technique called “ashlar masonry” to create tight joints between the stones.
   

2. The walls of Saqsaywaman are huge: The walls of Saqsaywaman are made up of several layers of stones up to 33 feet high (10 meters). Some of the stones used to build the walls weigh more than 125 tons!

3. Saqsaywaman was used as a fortress: Despite its impressive architecture, Saqsaywaman was primarily used as a fortress. The site was used to protect the Inca people from their enemies, including the Spanish conquerors.
   

4. Saqsaywaman is believed to have been an astronomical observatory: Some experts believe that Saqsaywaman was used as an astronomical observatory. The site is aligned with the stars and other celestial bodies, and it is possible that its walls were used to measure time.
   

5. Saqsaywaman is part of a larger complex: Saqsaywaman is part of a larger complex that includes the sites of Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. This complex was built to honor the Inca gods and is believed to have been used for religious ceremonies and rituals.
   

Saqsaywaman is a remarkable example of Inca architecture and engineering. Its massive walls and precise construction show the architectural skills of the Incas. Visitors from all around the world are amazed by the beauty and perfection of this extraordinary place.

Where is Saqsaywaman located?

The fortress is located pretty close to the Plaza de Armas of Cusco, just a few miles away, and it is very easy to get there by car, bus or even by foot.

• By Car: If you are driving to Saqsaywaman, the easiest route is to take Carretera del Sol (Highway 3S) from Cusco. This highway will take you directly to the main entrance of Saqsaywaman, which is located at the intersection of Avenida Pachacuteq and Avenida Tullumayo. There is plenty of parking available at the entrance, and it is free of charge.

• By Bus: If you are traveling by bus, there are several bus routes from Cusco's main bus station (Terminal Terrestre) that go directly to Saqsaywaman. The closest bus stop is located at the main entrance of the fortress. To get there, take the bus to San Jeronimo or San Blas and get off at the Avenida Pachacutec stop. The ride should take no more than 30 minutes.

• Saqsaywaman Map: The Saqsaywaman map below provides a visual guide of the area. As you can see, the fortress is located just a few miles north of Cusco's city center. The map also shows the bus routes from the city center, as well as the main entrance of Saqsaywaman.

Saqsaywaman is a great place to visit for those interested in Inca history and culture. It is easily accessible by car or bus from Cusco, and there is parenty of parking spaces once you are up there. Make sure to visit this amazing historical site when you have the chance. Book your space on our City Tour that includes a visit to Saqsaywaman Fortress when it's convenient for you, and get to know one of the greatest archaeological treasures of ancient Cusco with us.

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